GUEPARD Retroswiss Watch

As a constant reminder of moving quickly, this Retroswiss men's watch is thematic design at its best, as it takes inspiration from a race car’s instrument panel. Boutique watch maker GUEPARD starts with a heavily modified ETA automatic-mechanical 2836 movement, forming an appealing retrograde time display. The four subdials on the face tell the hours, minutes, seconds, and are a 24-hour time indicator. The charming indicators sit on a multi-level black or white carbon-fiber dial. Available in steel or various shades of 18 kt gold, this seriously luxurious watch is also available with a diamond-set bezel, and includes a hand-stitched alligator strap.

With strictly limited availability, the GUEPARD Retroswiss is both exclusive in numbers and in design. While there is a world of racing-inspired watches out there, the Retroswiss' take on the theme is uniquely executed with an independently modified movement and watch case shape that is individual to the brand. The case design itself, while modern with its contrasting polished and brushed finishes, hearkens back to the 1970s “showy” race watches -- hence the “retro” title in the name. The automatic movement is visible through the sapphire window on the back of the watch, along with GUEPARD’s handiwork on the movement. With customization options like enamel dials, fine gold cases and diamond settings, this already limited line will be further distinguished by a number of varying luxurious iterations. Investing in a GUEPARD Retroswiss watch can almost ensure you won’t see them on other people’s wrists.

While the GUEPARD Retroswiss has a sporty character, this isn’t an all-season watch. Consider it a luxury “sports-themed” watch -- suitable for whatever you would personally put a high-investment item through. Having said that, the base ETA 2836 movement is hardy enough to be jerked around a bit, and the hefty case and sapphire crystals offer 50 meters of water resistance -- good for a long watch lifespan. The case will scratch up as normal, but the watch itself should -- like most luxury Swiss watches -- last for decades. What was cool in the 1970s is cool now, but this piece is strictly ”retro-lite,” so the style should still be relevant, even after the current retro craze moves on to another era. Sure the GUEPARD Retroswiss is an acquired taste, but the right person can pull off this watch indefinitely.